Nutrition, nutrition, nutrition 
Ask Ben Dickman what counts the most in his milk production results at two Arizona dairy farms he manages, and he'll tell you without hesitation: Nutrition. Working with a nutritionist for the past three years, "we've seen increases in production month over month, year over year," says Ben, a third-generation dairyman. That's happened despite the hottest August ever recorded in Phoenix just two months ago, and a 2010 that was among the hottest years ever. 
The Dickman Dairy Team in Buckeye, AZ, from left: Ben Dickman, Manager Benji Mendez and Fred Dickman Ben's farm, Verrado Dairy, and his father Fred's Dickman Dairy, which he also manages, are 30 miles west of Phoenix. Each dairy operates with 850 cows. Ben says while his corral cooling methods are basic, the barn cooling system is extensive. "We maintain interior cooling in the milk barns and apply a water spray drench on the cows' backs when they exit the barn," says Ben. In Ben's eyes, the real contributor to the upward trend is nutrition. "A very consistent ration is the key," says Ben. One example is the greenchop mixed in the ration. "We were always running out of greenchop in years past. This year, we get fresh greenchop delivered every day." Ben has also used Diamond V nutritional fermentation products in his ration for the past three years. "I feel a very sound rumen is important. By using Diamond V, I feel I'm getting the best rumen health possible." The result? Daily DMI that has increased by .68 to .78 to lbs per cow over last year. Ben says a great working relationship with his nutritionist has made a big difference as well. "We're both on the same page. We have a close relationship and communicate well. We're always setting new goals, striving for more. Years ago, we did not focus as closely on DMI intake or feed consistency. After 2008 and 2009, with margins getting tighter and tighter, you've got to become a better dairyman or you'll wither away and go broke." Despite being in an area prone to some of the most severe heat in the global dairy industry, Ben says his milk per cow has increased by 5.9 lbs at Verrado Dairy, and 4.5 lbs at Dickman Dairy over August of last year. The focus on nutrition--even in record-setting heat--is paying off. Back to main page
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